I love the Olympics, I’m fixated watching the unique events like swimming, hurdles, shotput, etc. The dedication these athletes have for their sport is amazing. This year, without the crowds and cheering noise in Tokyo, I started noticing another part of the Olympics, the coaches.
Without the crowds and the proud smiles of crying parents and friends at the event, the media has had little place else to focus their cameras but on the coaches. This fulfilled the emotional need of the audience, the hugs on the sidelines and often the uncomfortable tension associated with watching a loved one compete.
There was a lot of talk after Xander Schauffele won gold for the U.S. in golf that his caddie deserved a medal as well. There is no doubt that a caddie plays a big part in the performance of the golfer, but NO Olympic coaches get official medals from the International Olympic Committee. Now I’m sure it helps being a winning Olympic coach if you want to find a new job and I’m sure there is some financial benefit, but I believe their true reward is about seeing the athlete excel.
I think of leadership the same way. Leaders stand on the sidelines while their people show the skills and talent that makes them great. They lead them and focus them. Of course, they can benefit from their people’s work, but that is not their focus. Their focus is making their people better equipped to do their work and making them feel relevant and wanted.
So, how are we rewarded by our people’s success?
– Our people highlight our role as leaders (others see your role and want you for their coach)
– Satisfaction and pride (proud moments are not reserved for the Olympic stage)
– Continued leadership success (world class athletes often become coaches)
The bottom line; Like coaches, leaders know the medal around the neck is short lived. The real accomplishment is seen in your people.